I seem to be the only family member with serious psychiatric issues, so that's a bit of an enigma, but I can totally relate to the fears about those "bad" genes that can plague a family. I have three older sisters. All three of them have had cancer. One died from leukemia. One is a breast cancer survivor. One had ovarian cancer, colon cancer, breast cancer, and leukemia from which she finally died. Our family has actually been studied by M.D. Andersen Cancer Center because of the familial tendency for cancer (it actually extends into cousins, grandparents, etc.) Genetic testing shows that my sister's cancer issues were the result of a genetic mutation (amazing scientific stuff). So yes, I feel a bit under the gun. Doctors take EVERYTHING very seriously with me and that can be nerve-wracking.

But I can't be angry or bitter about genetics. It is what it is. There is absolutely nothing anyone can do to stop it if it is going to happen. I guess my sister was such a positive example in dealing with all of her various cancers. She was such a pillar of strength and faith even through her suffering. We just have to deal with whatever life hands us to the best of our abilities. It does no good to place blame or play the "it's unfair" game.